Young people in Capel have plenty to celebrate after the shire received a state award for youth making a difference.
The Shire of Capel community art project, Captivate Capel was recognised in the 2017 WA Local Government Children’s Environment and Health Policy Awards.
Shire of Capel Youth Development Officer Chloerissa Eadie said it was a successful program, which empowered young people to take ownership of their skate park and develop new skills through a series of workshops led by local artists.
“The workshops not only developed the youths’ skills, but gave them the opportunity to feel connected to their community and see their work displayed in a public setting,” she said.
“Programs like this engage young people in a unique way, which is fun and educational and also has long term satisfaction.”
This idea was extended further by a whole public community art project taking place on the launch of Captivate Capel, with children being encouraged to paint on the Shire water tank and get involved in a chalk street art project.
The Public Health Advocacy Institute director Melissa Stoneham said councils were important because they cared about their communities.
"Children are an important part of any community, and they are our future,” she said.
“We are so excited to be acknowledging the Councils in WA who have developed policies and provide programs that are relevant and valued by young people.”
